There are archaeological sites in Israel literally everywhere you turn, and it is no wonder when you consider how many rules the land has been under over the course of thousands of years. Sites like the Western Wall, the Belvoir Fortress, Qumran and Shivta are just a few archaeological sites among many found in Israel, all of which offer an exciting glimpse into history and tell a detailed story. Here are some of the most popular and interesting archaeological sites in Israel, although, as you will realize when you are here, almost everywhere you turn, there is another archaeological site, a fortress or ruin, there for you to explore.
Archaeological Sites in Israel
Archaeological Sites in Israel
Katzrin
Known as the “capital of the Golan Heights”, Katzrin is full of beautiful scenery and fascinating history. The original Katzrin, which dates back to the Byzantine era, was destroyed by an earthquake in 749 CE. Thousands of years later, you can still see some of the ruins that tell the story of the ancient town.... Read More
The Museum of the Underground Prisoners, Akko (Acre)
History of the Museum of the Underground Prisoners The Museum of the Underground Prisoners in Akko tells the story of the underground fighters who fought for the independence of the State of Israel. The years leading to the establishment of the State of Israel were fraught by a bitter conflict between the Jewish and Arab... Read More
Hospitaller Fortress (Knights’ Halls), Akko
The Hospitaller Fortress is one of the most impressive sites in Akko. The Hospitallers, also known as the Order of the Knights of Saint John, were a military order of warrior monks created in the time of the Crusades. The Hospitaller Order helped pilgrims on their journey to the Holy Land, providing them with protection... Read More
Bethlehem
Bethlehem is an important historic city in the West Bank, about 10km (6.2 miles) south of Jerusalem. Bethlehem, or beit lechem means “House of Bread” in Hebrew. During the Christmas season, Christians from around the world make a pilgrimage to the Church of the Nativity to see the place where Jesus was born. Rachel’s Tomb... Read More
Jericho
Jericho is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and has a fascinating and history. Situated in the West Bank near the Jordan Valley and close to the Jordan River, Jericho is a place of huge religious and historical significance for locals and tourists alike. Jericho carries archaeological importance as it... Read More
Via Dolorosa
Via Dolorosa (Latin for “Sorrowful Way” or “Way of Suffering”) is a route through the Old City of Jerusalem that is believed to be the path Jesus walked to his crucifixion. The route goes from Antonia Fortress to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a distance of about 600 meters, and is a celebrated place... Read More
The Templars’ Tunnel, Akko (Acre)
The Templars’ Tunnel in Akko is an extraordinary underground passageway built by the Knights Templar (a Christian military order) to connect their main fortress at old Akko’s southwestern tip with the port. It is one of Akko’s most visited sites, with an underground stream and impressive domed ceiling. It is a marvel of ancient ingenuity... Read More
Kursi National Park
Kursi National Park is an archaeological site in Northern Israel enclosing the ruins of a Byzantine monastery. This monastery is identified by tradition as the site of Jesus’ “Miracle of the Swine”, in which Jesus is said to have performed an exorcism on a man possessed by demons. The demons then entered a herd of... Read More
The Russian Compound, Jerusalem
The Russian Compound, located in central Jerusalem, includes the massive and unmissable Holy Trinity Church and is one of the oldest parts of Jerusalem. Built in the 1860s, the compound is located off Jaffa Road, and was one of the first structures to be built outside the Old City of Jerusalem. Today, it houses many... Read More
Temple Mount Sifting Project. Jerusalem, Israel.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take part in some real archaeological work in the Holy Land! Get your hands dirty sifting for real treasures from the First and Second Temple periods. The Temple Mount Sifting Project is a unique initiative accessible to the public. In the 1990s, heaps of soil with unimaginable archaeological artifacts were... Read More
Family-Friendly Attractions in Israel
When traveling to the Holy Land, you’ll have plenty of options for family-friendly attractions in Israel. Family is at the heart of the local culture – so its no surprise that there are abundant ways to enjoy time together in this beautiful country. From Masada Fortress to Red Sea beaches – and plenty of child-friendly... Read More